Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Drought conditions in Whatcom and Skagit counties intensify, with over half of Whatcom County now facing severe drought. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports that 10% of Whatcom County is under extreme drought, a significant increase from the previous week.
Bellingham's Pickford Film Center opens a new location on August 1, inviting the community to an Open House with free popcorn. The theater will show classic films starting August 2, expanding its offerings with three additional screens.
Biotoxin levels have dropped to safe levels in Whatcom County, leading to the lifting of a shellfish harvesting ban for several beaches, including Sandy Point and Drayton Harbor. However, Skagit Bay remains closed due to high levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning biotoxins, and harvesters are advised to check the state’s closure map before collecting shellfish.
Bellingham Public Schools has settled a lawsuit with a family alleging mishandling of sexual harassment reports involving their daughter. The lawsuit claimed the district failed to comply with legal requirements and inadequately addressed incidents of harassment.
A fast-moving wildfire in Okanogan County has prompted level 3 “Go Now!” and level 2 “Get Set” evacuations in Winthrop. The fire, which ignited on Stud Mountain, has consumed approximately 550 acres and is only 5% contained as of August 1. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze.
The Community Boating Center in Bellingham, WA, is enhancing accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges by installing a wheelchair-accessible dock and acquiring wheelchair-friendly sailboats. Executive Director Bryan Rust emphasizes that boating should be inclusive, countering the perception that it is an elite sport. The center aims to foster a supportive community for all water enthusiasts.
Skagit County officials and farmers oppose Seattle's proposal to relicense its Skagit River dams, citing concerns over potential farmland seizures for restoration projects. They demand assurances against eminent domain actions that could affect over 1,300 acres of farmland.
Whatcom County Health and Community Services will host a free vaccine clinic in Bellingham on August 5. The clinic will provide Hepatitis A and B shots for uninsured adults and routine childhood vaccines for individuals under 19. Appointments can be scheduled online, but walk-ins may not be guaranteed service.
Whatcom County kicks off August with several festivals, including the Ferndale Block Party and the 2025 Bigfoot Festival. The Ferndale Block Party features live music, food trucks, and activities for kids, while the Bigfoot Festival celebrates the mythical creature with vendors and live entertainment. The Acid Ball Psych Rock Music Festival also takes place, offering a lineup of various bands.
The Bellingham Bells baseball team invites the community to a game on August 5, hosted by My Bellingham Now and KGMI. Attendees can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while meeting newsroom staff and fellow locals. Free tickets are available at Dewey Griffin Subaru in Bellingham.